Multimedia : Projects

Localization of multimedia CDROMs

Macron's standards and experience in localization are world class. The typical project follows these steps:

First customer contact. Following the initial contact, we work with the customer to prepare all the necessary materials for the localization project, including the original CD, any relevant information on technology employed and details on content to be localized.

Project speficiation. During the ensuing discussions, we agree on a range of necessary tasks to be implemented, from modification of original functionality, to changes in visual content, to upgrades to ensure functioning on the newest operating systems and to text translations and audio recordings. We place great emphasis on getting this stage of the project right; a comprehensive understanding at this stage of the technical challenges involved helps ensure the success of the project.

Preparation of project proposal and contract. On the basis of the pre-project stage, we prepare a detailed proposal describing the scope of work, project tasks and hours required for each. Translations and recordings. Every multimedia CD contains a wide range of text and sound that is necessary to prepare to allow the technical integration stage to begin. We regularly work with our own or outsourced resources in cooperation with the client to ensure the highest quality result of this phase.

Content integration and CDROM build. As soon as a sufficient part of the CD’s text and audio content have been prepared, we may begin the content integration phase working with prepared graphics, audio files, animations and videos. We then begin to address a range of technical issues from functionality modification to addition of an updated installation utility to the initial, or Alpha, CD build.

Testing and fixing. The project now moves into an exhaustive testing and fine-tuning phase; normally this is carried out in conjunction with the client or a contracted third party QA provider. The resulting comments and list of required fixes are implemented and a further CD build is made. A final check is carried out, and pending no further corrections, the final, fully-localized product is presented to the client.

Project archive. Once the product has been delivered and accepted, we perform an important step in archiving all project files and materials so that in future should it become necessary to build a new version, everything necessary will be at hand.